Colt 601: The AR-15 Becomes a Military Rifle

Published on December 25, 2019
Duration: 22:52

This entry details the Colt 601, the precursor to the iconic AR-15, tracing its development from ArmaLite through its adoption by the US military. It highlights key technical evolutions, procurement challenges, and its historical significance as the rifle that defined the modern military carbine. The information is presented with the deep historical and technical expertise characteristic of Forgotten Weapons.

Quick Summary

The Colt 601 was the inaugural production model of the AR-15, originating from ArmaLite and subsequently acquired by Colt. This rifle, distinguished by its green furniture and smooth receiver, served as the foundational design for the M16 military rifle, playing a crucial role in the evolution of modern infantry weapons.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and ArmaLite Origins
  2. 01:24The Sale to Colt
  3. 03:40Marketing the AR-15 in Asia
  4. 05:22General LeMay and the Watermelon Demo
  5. 08:27Adoption and Vietnam
  6. 12:21Technical Evolution: Model 601 to M16
  7. 17:22Detailed Part Comparisons
  8. 19:52Internal and Magazine Changes

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the Colt 601?

The Colt 601 was the first production model of the AR-15 rifle, developed by ArmaLite and later acquired by Colt. It featured distinctive green furniture and was the precursor to the iconic M16 military rifle.

How did Colt acquire the AR-15?

In 1959, Colt purchased the rights to the AR-15 from ArmaLite, which was facing financial difficulties. The deal was brokered by Cooper-McDonald for $75,000 plus royalties, allowing Colt to develop the rifle for military trials.

What were the key differences between the Colt 601 and later M16s?

The Colt 601 featured green furniture, a smooth-sided receiver, and lacked a forward assist. Later M16 variants, like the XM16E1, adopted black furniture, added a forward assist, and underwent various internal and external component refinements.

What role did General Curtis LeMay play in the AR-15's adoption?

A demonstration involving watermelons at General Curtis LeMay's birthday party impressed the Air Force Chief of Staff, leading to formal Air Force interest in the AR-15 as a potential replacement for the M2 Carbine.

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